Arsenal Mourns Loss of Sir Chips Keswick at 85

Sir Chips Keswick, the former chairman of Arsenal Football Club, passed away at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy of 15 years of service to the club. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the club, fans, and the football community, expressing their condolences and remembering his contributions to Arsenal.

This was a man who lived and breathed Arsenal Football Club. A lifelong supporter, he first stood in the boys’ enclosure at Highbury in 1949, and his heart never left the club. Sir Chips was a man of many talents, having made a name for himself in the banking industry, but his love for Arsenal was as unyielding as a well-timed tackle.

Sir Chips joined the Arsenal board in 2005, and it was like a match made in heaven. His clear-thinking, popular, and influential presence in the boardroom was as effective as a perfectly executed set-piece. In June 2013, when Peter Hill-Wood stepped down as Chairman, it was only natural that Sir Chips would step into the role. He did so with the grace of a seasoned midfielder, guiding the club expertly for seven seasons.

During his tenure, Sir Chips oversaw the club’s regular participation in the UEFA Champions League and, most notably, the FA Cup victories of 2017 and 2020. These triumphs were fitting tributes to his positive association with the club. His final year as Chairman saw Arsenal lift the FA Cup, a victory that was as sweet as a last-minute winner in injury time.

Sir Chips was not just a football man, though. He was a man of many passions, including horse racing. He was a respected owner of numerous racehorses, and his love for the sport was as strong as his love for Arsenal.

Sadly, Sir Chips Keswick passed away at the age of 85. The news of his passing was met with great sadness by everyone at Arsenal. The club released a statement expressing their condolences and reflecting on his 15 years of service to the club. Sir Chips’s legacy at Arsenal will never be forgotten, much like a legendary goal that lives on in the memories of fans.

In the end, Sir Chips Keswick was more than just a chairman. He was a lifelong fan, a dedicated servant, and a true Gunner at heart. His passing marks the end of an era at Arsenal, and his contributions to the club will be remembered fondly. Rest in peace, Sir Chips. You will be missed.